Question

Fill in the blanks with the correct words. An earthquake under the ocean can cause \(a(n)\) __________ that travels thousands of kilometers.

Short answer

A tsunami.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Problem

Start by understanding the background of the problem. The sentence states that an earthquake occurring under the ocean can result in something specific that travels a great distance. Our task is to identify what that 'something' is.

Recall Related Concepts

Think about natural phenomena associated with underwater earthquakes. Common knowledge suggests that these earthquakes can lead to large waves, known for traveling across vast areas.

Determine the Term

Based on common knowledge of geographical and natural events, the term for the large wave caused by an underwater earthquake is identified as a 'tsunami.'

Filling in the Blank

Fill in the blank in the sentence with the identified term: 'An earthquake under the ocean can cause a(n) **tsunami** that travels thousands of kilometers.' This term accurately describes the phenomenon.

Key concepts

Earthquake

An earthquake is a natural phenomenon that occurs due to the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust. This release of energy creates seismic waves, which can result in significant ground shaking. Earthquakes can happen anywhere in the world, but they are most common at the edges of tectonic plates. These movements can cause the ground to crack, move, or even open up.

• Earthquakes occur because of the movement of tectonic plates.
• They can have various magnitudes, measuring from small tremors to large, destructive quakes.
• The point on the Earth's surface directly above the earthquake is called the epicenter.

When an earthquake happens under the ocean, it has the potential to displace a large amount of water. This can create massive waves known as tsunamis, which travel across great distances.

Oceanography

Oceanography is the study of the ocean, encompassing its physical and biological aspects. Scientists in this field explore everything from ocean currents and wave dynamics to the creatures that inhabit marine environments. By understanding these elements, oceanographers can better predict and understand phenomena such as tsunamis.

• Ocean currents influence climate patterns and weather systems worldwide.
• The ocean covers about 71% of the Earth's surface, playing a key role in sustaining life.
• Oceanographers use various tools and methods, like satellites and submersibles, to study ocean phenomena.
• Data collected by oceanographers can help predict the impact of natural events like tsunamis.

This scientific knowledge helps mitigate the effects of natural disasters by providing accurate forecasts and warning systems.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters are catastrophic events that occur due to natural processes of the Earth. They can cause widespread destruction and disrupt the lives of many people. Common natural disasters include earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, and floods.

• Natural disasters often have profound impacts on communities and ecosystems.
• Preparedness and early warning systems are crucial in reducing the adverse effects of these events.
• Many natural disasters are interconnected, like how earthquakes can lead to tsunamis.

In the case of underwater earthquakes, the resulting tsunami can be one of the most devastating natural disasters, affecting coastal regions far from the earthquake's epicenter.

Wave Dynamics

Wave dynamics is the study of the movement and behavior of waves. In oceanography, understanding wave dynamics is crucial for predicting how waves will form and travel. Different factors such as wind, the Earth's rotation, and gravitational pull influence the behavior of waves.

• Waves are formed due to the transfer of energy through water.
• The size and speed of waves depend on factors like wind speed, fetch, and duration.
• In seismic events like tsunamis, the primary cause of wave formation is the displacement of water.

Tsunamis differ from typical waves because they have immense energy and can travel across entire ocean basins. Understanding wave dynamics helps scientists design better warning systems and models to forecast the impact of tsunamis on coastal communities.